In a Hurry? Our Top 3 Picks to Buy!
This miniature version crossbow packs enough power to deal with serious damage for spot or hunting. It is an excellent option for small game hunting and target practice.
The tactical bow offers a combination of weight, power, and a proper balance of moving and shooting.
These Best Tactical Crossbow come in various sizes, shapes, different calibers, pulling mechanism, and shooting speeds. Due to various available options, selecting the best one is a tough task.
Here is a list of Crossbow, including the buyer’s guide and reviews.
Comparison Chart For Top 10 Tactical Crossbow
| Bow | Speed (FPS) | Draw Weight (lbs) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| CenterPoint Tormentor | 380 | 185 | View on Amazon |
| Barnett Whitetail Hunter STR | 375 | 165 | View on Amazon |
| Barnett Explorer XP370 | 370 | 165 | View on Amazon |
| Barnett Whitetail Hunter II | 350 | 150 | View on Amazon |
| Cold Steel Cheap Shot | 226 | 130 | View on Amazon |
| PSE Viper SS | 215 | 50 | View on Amazon |
| Ace Martial Arts Supply Cobra | 165 | 80 | View on Amazon |
| KingsArchery | 165 | 50 | View on Amazon |
| Snake Eye | 165 | 80 | View on Amazon |
| XtremepowerUS Hybrid | 160 | 80 | View on Amazon |
Which are the Top 10 Tactical Crossbow In 2023?
1. CenterPoint Tormentor Whisper Compound Crossbow
| Tormentor Whisper 380 Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Speed | 380 FPS |
| Draw Weight | 185 lbs |
| Width Axle to Axle | 14″ (Cocked) |
| Energy | 120 ft. lbs. |
| Weight | 7.9 lbs |
| Length | 35″ |
| Stroke | 13.75” |
| Finish | Camo |
If you’re out looking for a crossbow that is silent and set to shoot at high speeds out of the box, there’s nothing better than the Tormentor Whisper 380.
It is a silent crossbow that includes a lot of features in the entry crossbow price. With 12 ft pounds of kinetic energy, it will easily conquer the big game.
The famous weapon maker Crossman manufactures this compound crossbow. It shoots at a speed of 380 feet per second with a pull out weight of 185 pounds. Its whisper system helps to make your shots as quiet as possible, making it a great weapon.
This combination of strength and quietness truly sets it apart from the others. It is ideal for deer and elk hunting. In just 14 inches of axle width when cockpad and 35 inches stirrup to buttpad, you can easily use this crossbow in blinds and tree stands.
Reasons To Buy
- Great value.
- Lots of features.
- Best for the price.
- 380 FPS, you can hunt anything.
- Compact design.
Reasons To Avoid
- A little heavy with all the accessories.
What’s the bottom line?
If you desire a silencing system with a tight budget, look no further than the Whisper 380. It is a crossbow hunting experience with superb power.
2. Barnett Whitetail Hunter STR Crossbow
| Whitetail Hunter STR Crossbow Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Speed | 375 FPS |
| Draw Weight | 165 lbs |
| Axle Width (cocked/uncocked) | 13″ / 18.125″ |
| Energy | 118 ft. lbs. |
| Weight | 6.6 lbs |
| Length | 34.857″ |
| Power Stroke | 15.7” |
| Finish | Mossy Oak Bottomland |
This Whitetail hunter STR comes with amazing STR (Step-Through Riser) technology the delivers great performance from a shorter crossbow. Its design reduces the overall length and improves power stroke by adding foot stirrup directly into the riser. It is easy to manoeuvre in tight quarters, hunting blinds and treestands. All in all, its manageable profile makes it suitable for hunters of all sizes.
Like other Barnett crossbows, the Hunter STR boasts a Picatinny rail that allows you to attach additional accessories to them like an extra quiver or flashlight, etc. In the crossbow package, it includes 4x32mm multi-reticle scope, two head hunter arrow, quiver and rope cocking device. Further, it sports a 3-pound TriggerTech trigger with frictionless release technology that creates a free-floating roller between the trigger and the sear for smooth, crisp, creep-free pull.
Reasons To Buy
- Better speed, power, and accuracy.
- Easy to assemble and use.
- TriggerTech trigger.
- Durable and solid construction.
- Ideal for beginners and intermediates.
Reasons To Avoid
- Scope is not illuminated.
What’s the bottom line?
It is a strong, precise, and durable crossbow with all the features you need. Its embroidery and light-weight make it an excellent crossbow for beginners.
3. Barnett Explorer XP370 Crossbow
| Barnett Explorer XP370 Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Speed | 370 FPS |
| Draw Weight | 165 lbs |
| Width Axle to Axle (cocked/uncocked) | 13.3″ / 16.5″ |
| Kinetic Energy | 115 ft. lbs. |
| Weight | 6 lbs |
| Length | 31.25″ |
| Power Stroke | 13.75” |
The all-new Barnett Explorer series introduces high power and performance in an affordable crossbow. It is fully customizable with adjustable cheek rest and buttstock for a better comfortable fit and overall shooting experience. It features high-energy cams that generate lots of power.
You can customize this crossbow with three Picatinny rails with extra equipment like a quiver, bipods, vertical foregrips, etc. Moreover, this beginner crossbow comes with a 4x32mm multi-reticle scope. It allows you to aim accurately on distances up to 60 yards.
Furthermore, it comes with a metal injection molded trigger with groundbreaking frictionless technology called “TriggerTech.” And the Soft Lok Floating Bristle Arrow Retainer holds bolts securely, and the Anti-Dry Fire prevents the crossbow from dry firing. The package comprises 4×32 millimeters multi-reticle scope, two 20″ Carbon Arrows, lightweight side mount quiver & Lube Wax.
Reasons To Buy
- Compact and sturdy design.
- Pre-Installed String Dampeners.
- Remarkable Accuracy And Power.
- Anti-Dry Fire Feature.
- Metal Injected Moulded Trigger.
Reasons To Avoid
- Trigger creep issues.
What’s the bottom line?
The Sniper 370 is a great shooting crossbow. We would recommend buying it for a hunter in the budget or first crossbow. You can use this to adjust your shooting style and exceptional accuracy.
4. Barnett Whitetail Hunter II Crossbow
| Whitetail II Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Speed | 350 FPS |
| Draw Weight | 160 lbs |
| Axle Width | 16.125″ |
| Kinetic Energy | 103 ft. lbs. |
| Weight | 6.4 lbs |
| Length | 34.25″ |
| Power Stroke | 12.5” |
| Finish | Real Tree Extra Camo |
It is a reliable and effective crossbow from a reputed brand. The Hunter II offers shooters plenty of power to take down the prey. It is compact at only 17.5 inches wide and 32.25 long. So you can carry it easily even in long distances and keep your aim on the target.
This well-balanced crossbow can shoot bolts up to 350 fps behind 103 ft-lbs of energy. Also, the assembly of this crossbow is easy and takes 5 to 10 minutes. It comes with a 4×32 multi reticle scope that gives a clear view.
It is equipped with ADF and automatic safety. This is automatically set during the action of drawing the string. The package also includes a scope, quiver, two arrows, a rope cocking device, and lube wax.
Reasons To Buy
- Accurate and well-balanced crossbow.
- Easy to maneuver – compact and sleek design.
- Ready to shoot package.
- Durable custom composite limbs for cold weather.
- Rope cocking device for easy cocking.
- Ideal for deer hunting.
What’s the bottom line?
The Whitetail Hunter II is one of the reliable and effective bows that deliver a lightweight of 6.4 pounds overall, impressive 350 FPS speeds, and a manageable 160 pounds pull weight. These features make it an ideal bow for crossbow hunters of all skill levels and sizes.
5. Cold Steel Cheap Shot Tactical Crossbow
| Cold Steel Cheap Shot Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Speed | 226 FPS |
| Draw Weight | 130 lbs |
| Axle Width (cocked/uncocked) | – |
| Kinetic Energy | – |
| Weight | 5.75 lbs |
| Length | 29.5″/33″ |
This Cold Steel Cheap Shot is one of the simplest tactical crossbows to reload. It doesn’t require a crank cocker or rope to draw – just pull the lever, and you are good to go. Its great accuracy at 30 yards makes it an excellent tactical crossbow. Apart from this, the speed is great as it shoots at up to 226 FPS.
It comes with everything you need for deer hunting, including red dot scope, shoulder sling and six 15″ bolts. Another interesting feature is the Picatinny rail that allows you to attach other accessories. Despite the low price, it has solid construction.
Reasons To Buy
- Pistol grip and foregrip.
- Comfortable and stable.
- Telescoping AR Style Buttstock.
- Fast and quiet loading.
- Easy to carry.
Reasons To Avoid
- Not suitable for medium sized game hunting.
What’s the bottom line?
The Cold Steel Cheap SHot 130 is a premium option for newbie crossbow hunters. It delivers an excellent speed and high-end features such as an adjustable butt-stock and foregrip that you can trust on.
6. Southland Archery Supply PSE Viper SS Handheld Pistol Crossbow
| PSE Viper SS Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Speed | 215 FPS |
| Draw Weight | 50 lbs |
| Axle Width(cocked/uncocked) | 13.75″ / 15.5” |
| Energy | – |
| Weight | 1.6 lbs |
| Length | 20″ |
The Viper SS from PSE Archery is one of the best pistol crossbows. It is fun and easy to use a crossbow. It has a composite frame and recurve bow limbs. With 50 pounds of draw weight, it can shoot up to 215 feet per second.
It is the most powerful, high-quality pistol crossbow that requires much lighter bolts to reach the velocity. The cocking mechanism comes with a safety lock, finger guard, an auto safety system, and an anti-dry fire mechanism. It comes with track style rail for accurate shooting.
Reasons To Buy
- A track-style rail to install the scope.
- Generates 215fps speed from 50lbs pull weight.
- Top-grade cocking mechanism with various safety features.
- 3 free bolts included.
Reasons To Avoid
- Frame and limbs are made from composite material.
What’s the bottom line?
The PSE Archery Viper SS Crossbow offers a lightweight, small design and excellent shooting power, with speeds of 215 fps. For a compact pistol tactical crossbow, you can choose this best Crossbow.
7. Ace Martial Arts Supply Self Cocking Crossbow
| Ace Martial Arts Pistol Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Speed | 165 FPS |
| Draw Weight | 80 lbs |
| Width Axle to Axle | 12″ |
| Kinetic Energy | 12.5 ft. lbs. |
| Weight | 2 lbs |
| Length | 23″ |
| Power Stroke | 6.1” |
It features a strong plastic that includes recurve limbs. These limbs are made from fiberglass that makes it a light crossbow. It is the best mini crossbow for hunting small to medium games.
It comes with a package including 4×20 scope, 39 aluminum arrow, and two 80lbs strings. Assembling this crossbow is an easy job as it takes only a few minutes.
It is a well-balanced crossbow to reduce the front heaviness and the great value for money. This mini crossbow shoots at 165 feet per second. It is perfect for hunting & target practice.
Reasons To Buy
- The arrows are compatible with many crossbows.
- Available in 3 sizes 17″/20”/22″ length.
- The package includes 100- grain field tip.
- Cost-effective safety practice arrows for archers.
- Best tactical crossbow, suitable for practice target and precision.
What’s the bottom line?
This Cobra System Pistol is manufactured with a sturdy plastic body and compressed molded fiberglass bows; It is perfect for both small game hunting and archery. It uses a safe-to-use cocking mechanism that will work only at your command.
8. KingsArchery Self-Cocking Crossbow
| KingsArchery Crossbow Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Speed | 165 FPS |
| Draw Weight | 50 lbs |
| Axle Width | 17.5″ |
| Kinetic Energy | – |
| Weight | 2.9 lbs |
| Length | 19.5″ |
If you want a crossbow that can shoot arrows quietly and quickly, this Kings archery crossbow is a great option. It fires arrows as fast as 165 fps, which is relatively fast for a crossbow with such a low price.
This bow is so easy to manage that it makes it great for younger archers or hunters. Moreover, it features a durable design as its limb is made of extremely durable fibreglass. It also includes adjustable sight that helps to place the shots on the target.
The self cocking lever is safe and easy to use. It allows you to reload the arrows more quickly so you can fire shot after shot. All in all, it is suitable for shooting small games or target shooting.
It also includes aluminum arrows, spare crossbow string, and caps. For consistent results, wax your string regularly and check all the screws.
Reasons To Buy
- Includes long-range scope and additional arrows.
- Solid build quality.
- Self cocking.
- Pistol-style design.
What’s the bottom line?
KingsArchery Crossbow is an exceptional value for money. If you search for an option for a medium size game and archery, the Kings Archery Crossbow will help you well. It provides high speed with very little human force required.
9. Snake Eye Mini Crossbow Pistol
| Snake Eye Crossbow Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Speed | 165 FPS |
| Draw Weight | 80 lbs |
| Width Axle to Axle | 16.5″ |
| Energy | – |
| Weight | 1.62 lbs |
| Length | 17″ |
| Power Stroke | 5” |
It comes with a self-cocking system that saves your effort to cock your crossbow. It consists of 15 metal arrows; therefore, you can start shooting with it right out of the box.
As it is a self-cocking xbow, it allows you to shoot at a much faster pace than the conventional bow. The narrow design of this pistol crossbow makes it fit in your hand comfortably. Moreover, it offers excellent durability and performance as its body is made of metal.
It has fiberglass prod that promotes flexibility and superb string alignment. It also features auto safety that engages in the cocking track style for employing great control. This safety feature is activated when you cock your bow.
Even if you are a novice, you can use this crossbow for hunting or target practice purposes.
Reasons To Buy
- Easy to load.
- Durable metal construction.
- Includes 15 metal arrows.
- Top-rated tactical crossbow for beginners.
- Made from high-tech fiberglass.
Reasons To Avoid
- The included metal bolts are of poor quality.
- Not suitable for a large game.
What’s the bottom line?
If you are looking for a crossbow for hunting small game, or target practice, without being treated like a string on a full-size crossbow, then this Snake Eye Tactical Pistol Crossbow is perfect for you.
10. XtremepowerUS Hybrid Crossbow
| XtremepowerUS Hybrid Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Speed | 160 FPS |
| Draw Weight | 80 lbs |
| Axle Width | 21.5” (cocked) |
| Effective Range | 75 m |
| Weight | 13 lbs |
| Length | 30″ |
| Power Stroke | 10” |
If you are looking for an excellent crossbow for your enjoyment, then this Multifunctional Crossbow of XtremepowerUS is right for you. It is built with forged quality steel to ensure a highly durable gear. A 4 x 32 mm scope is added to it for better accuracy, and it provides speeds up to 160 feet per second.
Its high-quality construction allows hunting for all seasons. Even you can continue the games at night with its night vision brilliant lights. However, the barrel is quite narrow, making it hard for a proper anchor point, but it stands far ahead with the price and quality.
Reasons To Buy
- Durable.
- Great Scope.
- Lightweight And Sleek design.
- Shoots Accurate Right Out Of The Box.
Reasons To Avoid
- The Barrel Is Too Narrow.
What’s the bottom line?
If you want an easy and practical crossbow, the XtremepowerUS Hybrid crossbow is an excellent weapon and is the most user-friendly.
How To Choose The Best Tactical Crossbow?
A hunting weapon is a big investment, so make sure to select the perfect one. There are various factors to consider while choosing the crossbow:
Tactical Vs Standard Crossbow
Both standard and tactical ones are accurate, powerful weapons that can be used for hunting. These crossbows have enough accuracy and power to take down even the largest game. They launch a speeding projectile with the tensed string.
The best tactical crossbow features an ultra-stiff, split-limb design that offers exceptional power and durability. Its adjustable vertical grip enables you to fire more accurate and precise shots.
On the other side, the standard compound bow is narrower and created with heavy strings. Therefore, its draw weight is too much for the average hunter to pull. It requires a cocking device (crank or rope cocking) that results in a slower fire rate.
Purpose
It offers two real uses. First, you can use it for fun and target practice. Also, you can use it for targeting small to medium game.
These crossbows come in many weights and designs. They are all made of different purposes. The first thing you need to find is for what purpose you require it.
Will you use it for shooting practice? Is budget a big concern, or you willing to pay more for improved precision.
Draw Weight
Like any compound bow, pistol and mini crossbows are categorized by their draw weight. It means how many pounds of force does it take to pull the string back.
For recurve crossbow or longbow, a standard pull out weight might be between 40 to 80 lbs. On the other hand, a full draw crossbow can draw as much as 300+ pounds.
Pistol crossbow ranges from 50 to 100 pounds of pull weight. This pull weight depending on various factors, can generally result in an arrow speed of 100 to 200 fps.
Size
Size does matter when it comes to hand crossbows. The lighter weight crossbows are more comfortable to carry over long ranges in the tight confines. As compared to full-size crossbow, they are less accurate and produce less power. If a size is crucial to you, be sure to consider this factor before making a purchase.
Range
It can be defined as the length or area of the field covered by the bolt after it has been fired with the crossbow. Usually, compound bows can cover a maximum of 30 yards, therefore make sure you select a model that can cover almost 15 to 30 yards.
Draw Method
There were several ways to draw a crossbow. Crank, levers, and hooks are common options for drawing. This crossbow rely on two variations of pulling the string and loading the crossbow.
The pistol or lower draw weight crossbows use the direct draw method. This crossbow uses direct draw since the draw weight is low and doesn’t require any cocking method. It has a handle on the back of the crossbow that is pulled straight back to draw the string.
In lever cocking method, it is integrated into the back of the bow is an elegantly hidden lever. Its “break action” and a depressing lock switch allows you to use the lever to draw the bowstring back. It creates a marginal amount of mechanical advantage when drawing the string.
Power Stroke
It determines the FPS and measures how far the bolts require to be pulled till it is latched or cocked. With a longer stroke, you can gain a faster speed. For hunting, select a crossbow that has a stroke between 11″ and 14″.
Auto Engaging System
The auto-engage system is a feature on most modern crossbows. It automatically engages the safety when you have cocked the crossbows. You will require first to turn the safety switch on fire. And then pull back the string to the latching and safety mechanism by hand.
Anti-Dry Fire
There is a spring-loaded trigger that prevents you from firing your bow until you fully load an arrow correctly.
Forward Grip
Forwarding grip is the part of the crossbow where you place your stabilizing hand. A poorly designed foregrip may cause injury to your finger.
A well-designed forward grip keeps your finger out of the way
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the maintenance tips for the crossbow?
The first thing you need to know about it is to keep the strings waxed or conditioned. Also, check the bowstrings for any wear and tear to keep your weapon safe for use.
First, check the manual that came with your crossbow for any preferred maintenance steps.
2. Do you need to wax your crossbow bowstring?
Yes, you need to wax the string regularly to prevent it from being damaged and prolong its use. These mini crossbows string is put under the same stress and made the same way as a full-sized hunting bowstring.
